Do I need a visa to enter South Africa?

Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Citizens from certain countries may be exempt from obtaining a visa for short stays. To determine if you need a visa, it's best to check with the South African embassy or consulate in your home country. Find out more here . Additionally, South Africa offers a visa waiver program for certain countries, allowing visitors to enter for tourism purposes without a visa for a specified period. Make sure you have a passport that is valid for at least 6 months from the date of your entry into South Africa and at least 1 blank page in your passport for endorsements.

Is South Africa safe for tourists?

South Africa is safe to visit, but like most developing countries, it's important to be street-smart: Keep a watchful eye on your belongings, whether you're solo or with a group. Avoid displaying valuables like phones and cameras, especially when out and about. Do not walk alone in deserted areas at night. Don’t keep large sums of money on you. When self-driving, be aware of the distance between the towns or petrol stations and know how to handle breakdowns or a flat tire. Admire wildlife from a safe distance –never exit your vehicle in national parks or reserves except at designated areas.

Can I self-drive in South Africa?

When driving in South Africa, travellers can use their valid foreign driver's licence if it meets specific criteria: it should be in English (or any other official South African language) or have an official English translation, and include a photo and signature. Road conditions vary by region. In the Western Cape, roads are generally well-maintained. In areas like the Eastern Cape, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and KwaZulu-Natal, occasional potholes may be encountered. To navigate, we recommend using Google Maps for the best routes, which will likely correspond to well-kept roads.

What currency is used in South Africa?

South Africa uses the currency Rand (ZAR) exclusively. You can exchange your currency for Rand at selected airports, banks, currency exchange offices, or ATMs. Card facilities are widely available, reducing the need for excessive cash on hand. Before your trip, check if your credit or debit card will work in South Africa for convenient card payments. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for small tips and when visiting remote destinations.

South Africa

The Peech Hotel

From €143 /person

4.9 Sustainability Rating

An opulent boutique hotel offering a comfortable Johannesburg stay over

Nestled in the suburbs of trendy Melrose in Johannesburg is a little patch of luxury. The Peech Hotel offers visitors an exclusive getaway with bespoke rooms, 2 on-site restaurants, a lush garden and a large swimming pool. Just a stone's throw away from a myriad of exceptional restaurants, and cultural and shopping experiences, The Peech Hotel is the perfect place to call home while indulging in all of the city's delights. The Peech also holds up when it comes to sustainability, evoking responsible tourism in its reduction of waste, conservation of energy and partnership with Pack for a Purpose in supporting the Little Eden charity home.

Nestled in the suburbs of trendy Melrose in Johannesburg is a little patch of luxury. ...

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CLASSIC ROOM

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Each of the spacious 14 Classic Rooms offer guests either 1 fitted king or 2 twin beds, with en-suite bathrooms and a cosy seating area. Each guest has access to a private balcony or patio to relax on after a busy day or long flight.

LUXURY ROOM

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Guests can choose between 14 Luxury Rooms, with oak accents and large doors that open out onto a private balcony or patio overlooking the lush gardens. The rooms each have either 1 fitted king or 2 twin beds, with en-suite bathrooms and large walk-in showers.

PEECH SUITE

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The 2 spacious Peech Suites have an open-plan design that flows out onto a private balcony or patio overlooking the beautiful garden. The rooms each include either 1 fitted king or 2 twin beds, with the option to add an extra child's bed, as well as a luxurious en-suite bathroom.

PEECH VILLA

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The luxurious Peech Villa offers plenty of space, with rooms opening up to a private balcony or patio. Guests have the choice between 2 bedrooms, each either 1 fitted king or 2 twin beds, with the option to add an extra child's bed, as well as a private en-suite bathroom.

CLASSIC ROOM

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LUXURY ROOM

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PEECH SUITE

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PEECH VILLA

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Because of the easy way we communicated with our Viatu expert, it felt like planning our holidays with a friend. It made it really flexible and perfectly suitable for our needs. The accommodations that he suggested were just wonderful and a perfect mix of everything we needed.

Nicole